Huawei nova Y90 vs. Nothing CMF Phone 1: A Deep Dive
Let's dissect the Huawei nova Y90 and the Nothing CMF Phone 1, going beyond the spec sheet to understand what these phones offer in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Huawei nova Y90 | Nothing CMF Phone 1 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4 | 164 x 77 x 8.2 | CMF Phone 1 slightly larger; both are sizable phones. |
| Weight (g) | 195 | 197 | Negligible weight difference; both feel substantial in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | AMOLED, 120Hz | CMF Phone 1: richer colors, deeper blacks, smoother scrolling; Nova Y90: good outdoor visibility |
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Virtually identical screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2388 | 1080 x 2400 | Similar sharpness; indistinguishable to the naked eye. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 680 4G | Dimensity 7300 | CMF Phone 1: significantly faster CPU and GPU, better for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | Ample memory for multitasking on both devices. |
| OS | EMUI 12 | Android 14 | CMF Phone 1: newer OS, likely longer software support, more features. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP | 50MP (IMX882) | CMF Phone 1: potentially better image quality due to superior sensor (IMX882). |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps | CMF Phone 1: significantly higher video resolution. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity; real-world endurance depends on usage and optimization. |
| Charging | 40W Wired | 33W Wired | Nova Y90: slightly faster wired charging. |
2. Key Insights
- Performance: The Nothing CMF Phone 1's Dimensity 7300 significantly outperforms the Nova Y90's Snapdragon 680, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks.
- Display: The CMF Phone 1's AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and deeper blacks, while the Nova Y90's 90Hz IPS LCD offers better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Camera: Both have 50MP main cameras, but the CMF Phone 1 utilizes a higher-quality Sony IMX882 sensor, promising better image quality. The CMF Phone 1's 4K video recording capability is a major advantage over the Nova Y90's 1080p.
- Software: The CMF Phone 1 runs on the latest Android 14, guaranteeing longer software updates and access to newer features. Huawei's EMUI 12, while potentially having some regional restrictions due to US sanctions, could still offer a solid user experience depending on individual needs.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Huawei nova Y90: Suitable for budget-conscious users prioritizing battery life and reliable performance for everyday tasks like social media, browsing, and casual photography.
- Nothing CMF Phone 1: Ideal for users who value a modern, sleek design, a vibrant display, strong performance for gaming and demanding applications, and a capable camera system.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- What is your budget? The Nova Y90 is generally more affordable.
- What are your performance needs? Gamers and power users should opt for the CMF Phone 1.
- How important is software and future updates? The CMF Phone 1, with Android 14, is better positioned for long-term support.
My Choice: Nothing CMF Phone 1
While the Huawei Nova Y90 is a solid budget option, I would choose the Nothing CMF Phone 1. The superior processor, AMOLED display, more capable camera system (especially the 4K video), and the latest Android OS with longer software support make it a more compelling overall package for my needs. The slightly higher price is justified by the significant performance and feature upgrades. As a tech journalist, having access to the latest technology and a device that can handle demanding tasks is crucial. The CMF Phone 1 better fits that profile.
